The Capitol Building, generally known as 410 Asylum Street, is a six-story buff brick commercial structure, built in 1926. Designed by Thomas W. Lamb (1879-1942), the building, fronting approximately 100 feet on Asylum Street with 175 feet along High Street, is a good example of the Neo-Classical Revival architectural style in vogue at the time it was built. The street elevations consist of a high rusticated light gray granite first floor with central arched doorways, on each street, flanked by storefronts. The rusticated first floor is the base, the next three floors that are free of ornamentation are the shaft, the elaborate upper two floors and cornice compose the capital. Such an arrangement dominated the design of contemporary tall buildings. The two tall arched recessed entries on Asylum and High Streets, surrounded by rusticated granite, are visually strong features. [2]

Significance of the property:

The general Neo-Classical Revival architectural concept of 410 Asylum Street is typical of its times, but better executed than many other examples in the quality of materials, successful proportions and authentically embellished details. While the base, shaft, and capital program for the six stories is standard, the rusticated granite and marble store fronts of the first floor indicate an interest in creating an above average sense of attraction and desirability for the building. The faux mosaics in the entry arches and lobby are seldom matched elsewhere in Hartford. Granite Ionic pilasters at first and fifth and sixth floors are carefully proportioned in the Neo-Classical Revival pattern, while the roof cornice of carved modillions and Grecian-inspired acroteria, which remains intact, is rare. [2]

Relationship with the Surroundings:

The 0.487 acres property is sited at the northwest corner of Asylum and High Streets, across from Bushnell Park and the state Capitol, in Hartford's central business district.